A COUPLE and their dog escaped a house fire unharmed after being alerted by their smoke alarm.

Two fire crews from Colchester were called to Craven Drive at 7.07am on Tuesday morning.

The firefighters put out the blaze in the first floor of the detached house and stopped it spreading to the loft.

The fire was caused by an electrical fault in the airing cupboard.

Watch Manager Darren Holliday said: "The occupants said it themselves, the smoke alarm saved them today and their quick action in getting out of the house and calling us allowed us to arrive promptly and extinguish the fire before it caused any further damage.

"Although the house has been left with significant damage, the occupants were safe and we managed to save some of their sentimental contents.

"Having working smoke alarms in your home can help to save your life in the event of a fire, if you or someone you know hasn't got working smoke alarms in your home.

"I would encourage you to book a free home safety visit."

The fire service provides and fits smoke alarms free of charge.

Call 0300 303 0088 or visit www.essex-fire.gov.uk/book.